A quick post to reassure readers I haven't abandoned the project; just a bit busy this week with other writing. Expect more recipes and experimentation next week!

What's a girl to do when her personal chef (and life partner) is away and there's a surplus of leftover buns, lamb meat, home-grown tomatoes at the peak of freshness, and fresh mint?

Quick answer: Make a burger. I seasoned my half-pound of ground lamb with allspice and pepper in addition to the cumin, then cooked it rare in a skillet with olive oil. Garnishes included the tomatoes, parsley, and a schmear of hummus. Holding it all together was a toasted butter bun made by my inamorato the night before he left.